Optical Passive Sensor Calibration for Satellite Remote Sensing and the Legacy of NOAA, NASA and NIST Cooperation

Published

May 14, 2015

Author(s)

Raju V. Datla

Abstract

This paper traces the development of physical standards and measurement methodologies for calibrating satellite based optical sensors in the civilian sector for remote sensing the earth, atmosphere and oceans from the inception of satellite era in 1960s to today. It shows the remarkable unity of purpose and co-operation between the scientists and engineers in the three agencies, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) formerly National Bureau of Standards (NBS) in this effort. The drive to improve accuracy of measurements has taken a new impetus in recent years for improved weather prediction and climate monitoring. The challenges currently being addressed by the three agencies for improved accuracies to achieve SI traceability for optical sensor calibration in space are also summarized.

Citation

Journal of Research (NIST JRES) - 119.008

Report Number

119.008

NIST Pub Series

Journal of Research (NIST JRES)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

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DOI Link

Keywords

Optical Remote Sensing of Earth, NIST Transfer Standards, NOAA, NASA, and NIST cooperation for Sensor calibration, SI traceability

Citation

Datla, R. (2015), Optical Passive Sensor Calibration for Satellite Remote Sensing and the Legacy of NOAA, NASA and NIST Cooperation, Journal of Research (NIST JRES), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/jres.119.008 (Accessed October 11, 2025)